Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A display device comprising: a display panel including a folding area and a nonfolding area located around the folding area; a panel bottom member under the display panel and overlapping with the folding area and the nonfolding area; and a first pattern formed in the panel bottom member and overlapping with the folding area, wherein the panel bottom member comprises a buffer member and a support member between the display panel and the buffer member, and the first pattern is recessed from a lower surface of the support member.
This invention relates to flexible display devices, specifically addressing durability and reliability issues in folding regions. Flexible displays often suffer from stress concentration and damage when repeatedly folded, particularly at the folding area where the display panel and underlying components experience mechanical strain. The invention provides a display device with an improved structure to mitigate these problems. The device includes a display panel with a folding area and a surrounding nonfolding area. Beneath the display panel is a panel bottom member that spans both the folding and nonfolding regions. The panel bottom member consists of a support member directly beneath the display panel and a buffer member below the support member. A recessed pattern is formed in the lower surface of the support member, specifically in the region overlapping the folding area. This recessed pattern reduces stress concentration by allowing controlled deformation during folding, thereby enhancing the device's lifespan and reliability. The buffer member provides additional cushioning to further protect the display panel from mechanical stress. This design ensures that the folding area can withstand repeated bending without structural failure, improving the overall durability of flexible display devices.
2. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the first pattern has a groove shape recessed from the lower surface of the support member.
A display device includes a support member with a lower surface and a first pattern formed on the lower surface. The first pattern has a groove shape that is recessed into the support member. This groove-shaped pattern is designed to improve the structural or optical properties of the display device, such as enhancing light extraction efficiency, reducing reflections, or providing mechanical stability. The support member may be part of a backlight unit, a light guide plate, or another component within the display device. The groove shape may be uniform or vary in depth, width, or spacing to achieve specific performance characteristics. The recessed grooves can also facilitate the integration of additional optical films or layers, such as diffusers or reflectors, to optimize light distribution. The overall design aims to improve display quality by controlling light behavior within the device while maintaining structural integrity.
3. The display device of claim 2 , wherein the first pattern has a line shape extending continuously along the folding area.
A display device includes a flexible display panel with a folding area that allows the panel to be folded. The device has a first pattern and a second pattern formed on the display panel. The first pattern is located in the folding area and has a line shape that extends continuously along the folding area. The second pattern is located outside the folding area and has a different shape from the first pattern. The first and second patterns are formed by removing portions of a conductive layer on the display panel. The first pattern reduces stress concentration in the folding area when the display panel is folded, while the second pattern provides structural support outside the folding area. The patterns are designed to prevent damage to the display panel during repeated folding and unfolding. The conductive layer may be a metal layer or a transparent conductive oxide layer, and the patterns are formed by etching or laser processing. The device may be a foldable smartphone, tablet, or other flexible electronic device. The patterns improve durability and reliability of the display panel in foldable applications.
4. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the first pattern has an uneven shape on the lower surface of the support member.
A display device includes a support member with a lower surface having an uneven shape. The uneven shape of the lower surface is designed to improve structural stability or reduce weight while maintaining rigidity. The support member may be part of a display panel, such as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, where the uneven surface helps distribute stress or enhance heat dissipation. The uneven shape may include grooves, ridges, or other irregularities that optimize mechanical properties without compromising display performance. The support member may also include additional features, such as a second pattern on an upper surface, to further enhance functionality. The uneven lower surface may be formed through molding, etching, or other manufacturing processes to achieve the desired structural characteristics. This design is particularly useful in flexible or lightweight displays where maintaining structural integrity is critical. The uneven shape may also improve adhesion with adjacent components or reduce material usage while maintaining strength. The overall structure ensures durability and reliability in various display applications.
5. The display device of claim 4 , wherein the first pattern includes a relatively protruded convex portion, and the convex portion is not protruded from the lower surface of the support member.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the challenge of improving structural integrity and optical performance in flexible or foldable displays. The device includes a support member with a lower surface and an upper surface, where the upper surface has a first pattern. The first pattern includes a convex portion that is relatively protruded compared to other parts of the pattern but does not extend beyond the lower surface of the support member. This design ensures that the convex portion provides structural reinforcement without interfering with the overall flatness or flexibility of the display. The support member may be part of a larger assembly, such as a display panel or a housing, and the convex portion helps distribute stress or impact forces while maintaining a smooth lower surface. The invention is particularly useful in applications where durability and thinness are critical, such as in foldable smartphones or wearable devices. The convex portion's controlled protrusion prevents damage to underlying components while enhancing the display's resistance to bending or external pressure. The overall structure balances mechanical strength with optical clarity, ensuring the display remains functional and visually unobstructed.
6. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the support member includes a metal.
A display device includes a support member that provides structural support to the display panel. The support member is designed to enhance rigidity and durability while maintaining a lightweight structure. In this embodiment, the support member incorporates a metal material, which improves strength and thermal conductivity compared to non-metallic alternatives. The metal support member may be integrated into the display device's frame or housing, ensuring stability during handling and operation. This design is particularly useful in portable or high-performance displays where structural integrity and heat dissipation are critical. The metal support member may also contribute to electromagnetic shielding, reducing interference with internal components. The display device may further include additional features such as a flexible or foldable display panel, where the metal support member helps maintain structural integrity during repeated bending or folding. The use of metal in the support member balances strength, weight, and thermal management, making it suitable for various display applications, including smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices.
7. The display device of claim 6 , wherein an end of the first pattern is aligned with a boundary between the folding area and the nonfolding area.
A display device includes a flexible display panel with a folding area and a nonfolding area. The display panel has a first pattern and a second pattern formed on a surface of the display panel. The first pattern is located in the folding area, and the second pattern is located in the nonfolding area. The first pattern has a first width, and the second pattern has a second width. The first width is greater than the second width. The first pattern is formed by a first material, and the second pattern is formed by a second material. The first material has a first hardness, and the second material has a second hardness. The first hardness is less than the second hardness. An end of the first pattern is aligned with a boundary between the folding area and the nonfolding area. The display device is configured to fold along the folding area. The first pattern reduces stress concentration in the folding area during folding, while the second pattern provides structural support in the nonfolding area. The different widths and materials of the patterns optimize durability and flexibility in the respective areas. This design prevents damage to the display panel during repeated folding and unfolding.
8. The display device of claim 6 , wherein an end of the first pattern is in the nonfolding area.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to flexible display devices, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining structural integrity and functionality in foldable displays. The device includes a flexible display panel with a folding area and a nonfolding area. The folding area allows the display to bend or fold, while the nonfolding area remains rigid or fixed. A first pattern, such as a conductive trace or structural reinforcement, is positioned on the display panel. One end of this pattern is located in the nonfolding area, ensuring stability and preventing damage during repeated folding. The nonfolding area provides a secure anchor point, reducing stress on the pattern and improving durability. The pattern may also extend into the folding area to maintain electrical connectivity or structural support. The invention enhances the reliability of foldable displays by strategically placing critical components in stable regions while allowing flexibility where needed. This design is particularly useful in smartphones, tablets, and other portable electronic devices that require both flexibility and durability.
9. The display device of claim 1 , further comprising a second pattern formed in the buffer member and overlapping with the first pattern.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the challenge of improving structural integrity and performance in flexible or foldable displays. The device includes a buffer member with a first pattern that enhances flexibility and durability by reducing stress concentrations during bending or folding. The buffer member is positioned between a display panel and a support substrate, providing mechanical support while allowing controlled deformation. The invention further includes a second pattern formed in the buffer member, overlapping with the first pattern. This overlapping configuration optimizes stress distribution and deformation behavior, preventing localized damage and extending the lifespan of the display. The patterns may be arranged in a grid, mesh, or other geometric configuration to tailor flexibility and rigidity in specific regions. The buffer member may be made of materials such as polyimide, polyamide, or other flexible polymers, while the patterns can be formed through etching, laser processing, or other precision techniques. By incorporating the second overlapping pattern, the display device achieves improved resistance to fatigue and cracking, making it suitable for applications in foldable smartphones, tablets, or wearable devices. The overlapping patterns work synergistically to distribute mechanical stress more evenly, reducing the risk of failure during repeated bending cycles. This design ensures reliable performance in dynamic environments while maintaining display quality.
10. The display device of claim 1 , wherein an upper surface of the buffer member faces the lower surface of the support member, and wherein the upper surface of the buffer member overlaps the first pattern.
A display device includes a support member with a lower surface and a buffer member positioned below the support member. The buffer member has an upper surface that faces the lower surface of the support member. The upper surface of the buffer member includes a first pattern, which may be a textured or structured surface designed to enhance adhesion, reduce stress concentration, or improve mechanical stability between the buffer member and the support member. The buffer member is typically a flexible or compliant material, such as a polymer or adhesive layer, that absorbs mechanical shocks or vibrations, protecting the display panel or other components. The support member provides structural rigidity to the display device, ensuring flatness and durability. The overlapping alignment of the first pattern with the support member ensures consistent performance and prevents delamination or misalignment under stress. This configuration is particularly useful in flexible or foldable displays where mechanical stress is a critical concern. The buffer member may also include additional features, such as a second pattern on its lower surface, to further enhance its functionality. The overall design improves the reliability and longevity of the display device by mitigating mechanical failures caused by external forces or repeated bending.
11. A display device comprising: a display panel including a folding area and a nonfolding area located around the folding area; and a panel bottom member under the display panel and comprising a rigid material overlapping with the folding area, the panel bottom member having a first thickness in the folding area and a second thickness in the nonfolding area, the first thickness being thinner than the second thickness.
A display device includes a flexible display panel with a folding area and a nonfolding area surrounding it. The device also has a panel bottom member positioned beneath the display panel, made of a rigid material that overlaps with the folding area. The panel bottom member has a first thickness in the folding area and a second, greater thickness in the nonfolding area. This design reduces the overall thickness of the device in the folding region while maintaining structural support in the nonfolding regions. The rigid material in the folding area provides durability and protection during repeated folding and unfolding, while the thicker nonfolding areas enhance stability and rigidity. This configuration allows for a thinner, more flexible folding section while ensuring the device remains robust and functional. The invention addresses the challenge of balancing flexibility and durability in foldable display devices, particularly in regions subjected to frequent bending stress. The rigid material's varying thickness optimizes the device's structural integrity and user experience.
12. The display device of claim 11 , wherein the panel bottom member includes a buffer member, and a first pattern is formed on an upper surface or a lower surface of the buffer member.
A display device includes a panel bottom member with a buffer member, where a first pattern is formed on either the upper or lower surface of the buffer member. The buffer member is designed to absorb impact and reduce stress on the display panel, improving durability. The first pattern may include structural features such as grooves, ridges, or textured surfaces to enhance shock absorption, heat dissipation, or adhesion properties. The panel bottom member supports the display panel and may include additional components like a backlight unit, a heat dissipation layer, or a structural frame. The buffer member is positioned between the display panel and the panel bottom member to prevent damage from external forces. The first pattern optimizes the buffer member's performance by improving its mechanical properties or interaction with adjacent layers. This design is particularly useful in portable or flexible display devices where impact resistance and structural integrity are critical. The pattern may also facilitate assembly by improving alignment or bonding with other components. The overall structure ensures the display remains functional under various environmental conditions while maintaining visual quality.
13. The display device of claim 12 , wherein the first pattern has a groove shape recessed from the upper surface or the lower surface of the buffer member.
A display device includes a buffer member with a first pattern formed on an upper or lower surface. The first pattern has a groove shape recessed into the surface of the buffer member. This groove-shaped pattern is designed to improve the mechanical properties or functionality of the buffer member, such as enhancing flexibility, reducing stress concentration, or facilitating adhesion with other components. The buffer member itself is positioned between a display panel and a support structure, providing cushioning and structural support to the display panel. The groove-shaped pattern may be formed through processes like etching, molding, or laser engraving, depending on the material of the buffer member. The pattern's dimensions, such as depth and width, are optimized to achieve the desired mechanical or functional effects without compromising the buffer member's integrity. This design is particularly useful in flexible or foldable display devices where stress distribution and durability are critical. The groove shape may also aid in aligning or interlocking with adjacent components, improving overall assembly stability. The buffer member can be made from materials like polyimide, polyurethane, or other flexible polymers, chosen based on the specific application requirements.
14. The display device of claim 12 , wherein the first pattern has an uneven shape on the upper surface or the lower surface of the buffer member.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the issue of improving the structural integrity and performance of flexible or foldable displays. The device includes a buffer member positioned between a display panel and a support member, where the buffer member has a first pattern with an uneven shape on either its upper or lower surface. This uneven shape enhances adhesion between the buffer member and adjacent components, reducing delamination and improving durability. The buffer member may also include a second pattern on the opposite surface, which can be aligned or misaligned with the first pattern to further optimize mechanical properties. The support member provides structural support to the display panel, while the buffer member absorbs stress and prevents damage during bending or folding. The uneven surface patterns can be formed through processes like laser etching or embossing, ensuring precise control over the pattern geometry. This design is particularly useful in flexible or foldable electronic devices, where maintaining structural integrity under repeated deformation is critical. The invention aims to enhance the reliability and lifespan of such displays by improving the interface between the buffer member and other components.
15. The display device of claim 11 , wherein an interval between an upper surface of the panel bottom member and the display panel is constant.
A display device includes a panel bottom member and a display panel positioned above the panel bottom member. The panel bottom member provides structural support and houses components such as a light source for backlighting. The display panel, which may be an LCD or similar technology, is mounted above the panel bottom member. The device ensures a consistent interval between the upper surface of the panel bottom member and the lower surface of the display panel. This uniform spacing is maintained to optimize optical performance, thermal management, and mechanical stability. The constant interval prevents variations in backlight uniformity, reduces the risk of component misalignment, and ensures efficient heat dissipation. The design may also include additional features such as a light guide plate, reflective sheet, or diffusion sheet positioned within the interval to enhance display quality. The display panel is secured in place using mounting mechanisms that maintain the specified spacing, ensuring reliable operation over time. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring high-performance displays with consistent visual output and durability.
16. The display device of claim 15 , wherein the rigid material includes a metal.
A display device incorporates a rigid material, such as metal, to enhance structural integrity and durability. The device includes a flexible display panel that is mechanically coupled to a support structure, allowing the display to bend or flex while maintaining stability. The rigid material, which may be metal, is integrated into the support structure to provide localized stiffness, preventing excessive deformation or damage during bending. This design enables the display to withstand repeated flexing without compromising performance, making it suitable for applications requiring both flexibility and robustness. The rigid material may be strategically placed to reinforce critical areas, ensuring uniform support while allowing other regions to remain flexible. The display device is particularly useful in portable electronics, where durability and flexibility are essential for user interaction and device longevity. The integration of metal or other rigid materials ensures that the display maintains its structural integrity under various usage conditions, including accidental impacts or prolonged bending. This approach balances flexibility and rigidity, addressing the challenge of creating durable yet adaptable display technologies.
17. The display device of claim 15 , further comprising a buffer member at a lower portion of the panel bottom member.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing structural improvements to enhance durability and performance. The device includes a panel bottom member that supports a display panel, with the panel bottom member having a first side wall and a second side wall extending downward. The first side wall is longer than the second side wall, and the panel bottom member is configured to be coupled to a rear cover. The display device further incorporates a buffer member positioned at the lower portion of the panel bottom member. This buffer member is designed to absorb impact and reduce stress on the display panel, particularly during handling or accidental drops. The buffer member may be made of a flexible or shock-absorbing material, such as rubber or silicone, to protect the display panel and internal components from damage. The structural design ensures stability while allowing for efficient assembly and disassembly. The invention aims to improve the robustness of display devices, particularly in portable or handheld applications where impact resistance is critical.
18. The display device of claim 17 , wherein the buffer member has a third thickness in the folding area and a fourth thickness in the nonfolding area, and the third thickness is thinner than the fourth thickness.
A display device includes a flexible display panel and a buffer member that supports the display panel. The buffer member has a folding area where the display panel can be bent or folded, and a nonfolding area where the display panel remains flat. The buffer member has a reduced thickness in the folding area compared to the nonfolding area, allowing the display panel to bend more easily in the folding area while maintaining structural support in the nonfolding area. This design prevents excessive stress concentration in the folding area, reducing the risk of damage to the display panel during repeated folding and unfolding. The buffer member may be made of a flexible material, such as a polymer or composite, and may include additional reinforcing layers in the nonfolding area to enhance rigidity. The display device may also include a hinge mechanism or other structural components to facilitate controlled folding. The reduced thickness in the folding area ensures smooth bending without compromising the overall durability of the display panel. This configuration is particularly useful in foldable electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops, where flexibility and longevity are critical.
19. The display device of claim 18 , wherein the first thickness is thinner than the third thickness.
This display device features a flexible display panel, which includes a foldable region and surrounding non-folding regions. Positioned directly beneath the display panel is a panel bottom member, made of a rigid material, which maintains a constant gap between its upper surface and the display panel. This panel bottom member is specifically designed to be thinner in the folding area (a "first thickness") compared to its thickness in the non-folding areas (a "second thickness"). Further, a buffer member is located at the lower portion of the panel bottom member. This buffer member is also thinner in the folding area (a "third thickness") than in the non-folding areas (a "fourth thickness"). A key characteristic is that the rigid panel bottom member's thickness in the folding area (the first thickness) is specifically designed to be even thinner than the buffer member's thickness in that same folding area (the third thickness). ERROR (embedding): Error: Failed to save embedding: Could not find the 'embedding' column of 'patent_claims' in the schema cache
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October 1, 2019
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